28th Aug 2023
Delta 8 For Sleep: Effect on comfort
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 70% of Americans suffer from chronic sleep disorders. Three out of four individuals sleep less than recommended by experts.
Sleep deprivation can significantly impact daily productivity and functioning, as well as negatively affect overall health and lifespan. Sleep deprivation may lead to injuries, chronic illnesses, and mental disorders.
Adequate sleep is essential for enhancing overall well-being and quality of life. While achieving a good night's sleep might seem simple, some individuals require the assistance of sleeping pills due to conditions like insomnia or restlessness. If you're reading this article, it's likely because you're dealing with insomnia or restlessness, hindering your ability to sleep, and you're searching for potential solutions.
Could Delta 8 be the answer to your sleep issues?
What Exactly is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 is an analogue of THC. THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis.
When people refer to cannabis or THC, they are usually talking about delta 9 THC, the most abundant cannabinoid in cannabis.
Delta 8 and delta 9 are primarily differentiated by their potency. Delta 9 induces a strong high that can result in adverse effects such as paranoia or anxiety. In contrast, delta 8 produces a milder high with fewer side effects. Delta 8 THC's potency is roughly 70% lower than that of delta 9.
Delta 8 is a naturally occurring chemical in small quantities, although it can also be synthesized from CBD. CBD is the second most abundant cannabinoid found in cannabis and hemp. Delta 8 can also be derived from delta 9 THC.
How Does Delta 8 THC Function?
Delta 8 is a cannabinoid that interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS regulates numerous cognitive and physiological functions, including:
- Delta 8 carries out its core functions by binding to the cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors within the ECS.
- Scientists believe that the primary role of the endocannabinoid system is to maintain the body's homeostasis.
- Maintaining healthy sleep cycles is crucial, as the body performs essential functions during sleep, such as self-healing, brain development, and emotional processing.
Can Delta 8 Help Improve Sleep?
While there is limited human research on the effects of Delta 8, the existing knowledge about delta 8 and cannabis as a whole points towards a positive answer. Delta 8 has the potential to aid in sleep.
Furthermore, reports suggest that delta 8 has various other health benefits, including its potential to enhance sleep quality.
What Does Research Indicate About Delta 8 for Sleep?
Cannabis has been used for centuries to address health concerns, including sleep-related issues.
During sleep, the brain consolidates information, processes memories, and performs memory processing.
It's plausible to assume that delta 8 might impact sleep in a manner similar to THC.
However, delta-8 THC is less potent, and its negative effects are less pronounced even at higher doses.
In 1973, a study was conducted to explore the effects of delta 8 on sleep in cats. The study found that delta 8 THC increased rapid eye movements and induced sedation.
Researchers concluded that delta 8 THC might possess clinically beneficial sedative properties.
Other studies have indicated that cannabinoids, such as delta 8, may reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and positively influence the circadian clock.
Circadian Rhythms are natural processes that follow a 24-hour cycle, like the sleep/wake cycle.
Since delta 8 interacts with the ECS similarly to CBD, it can be inferred that delta 8 might have a comparable impact on the sleep cycle.
Does Delta 8 THC Address Sleep-Affecting Factors?
Delta 8 can aid in falling asleep by increasing the production of melatonin. Melatonin is the hormone released by the brain in response to darkness. This mechanism also positively influences other factors contributing to restful sleep. Delta 8 THC has the potential to reduce anxiety, thereby enhancing the ability to both fall asleep and stay asleep. By blocking pain signals, delta 8 helps in pain management, contributing to better sleep quality. Additionally, delta 8 enhances the effects of serotonin, a hormone known for its calming and relaxing properties.
In conclusion, the effects of delta-8 THC can potentially provide the body with the support needed for improved sleep.
Utilizing Delta 8 for Sleep
Optimizing the benefits of delta 8 THC involves adhering to some best practices. Always consult a medical professional before consuming Delta 8 THC.
1. Consider Indica Strains
Certain delta 8 THC products on the market contain natural ingredients such as terpenes derived from cannabis strains specifically bred for their properties.
Indica strains are recognized for their relaxing, calming, and sedating effects, making them suitable for nighttime use and promoting sleep.
2. Select a Consumption Method
Hemp products come in various forms, allowing you to choose according to your preferences and needs.
The choice of delta 8 THC product depends on how your body responds. Different product types also impact the duration of effects on sleep.
- Delta 8 THC Edibles: Edibles, like Delta 8 gummies, produce longer-lasting effects but require more time to take effect due to metabolism in the liver. These are best consumed 30 to 90 minutes before bedtime.
- Delta 8 THC Tinctures and Oils: Tinctures, infused with delta 8 THC, are absorbed through the bloodstream under the tongue. They work faster than edibles, aiding in quicker sleep onset, though the effects are not as long-lasting.
- Delta 8 Smokables and Vapes: Smokable and vape forms provide almost instant effects, with a duration similar to tinctures. Smokables are particularly suitable for individuals accustomed to smoking before bed.
3. Combine with CBD or Other Cannabinoids
Introducing CBD to delta 8 THC can create an entourage effect, enhancing sleep regulation. This combination leverages the benefits of both delta 8 and CBD, potentially improving sleep quality.
4. Time Your Dosage
For optimal results, take delta 8 THC in the evening. Consider the product type when determining the timing, as edibles take longer to work compared to smoking or vaping.
5. Begin with a Small Dose
Delta 8's effects vary among individuals, so it's advisable to start with a small dose, especially for first-time users. Avoid increasing dosage rapidly, as is the case with delta 8 gummies, as their slower onset might lead to overconsumption.
Safety of Using Delta 8 for Sleep
Research suggests that neither cannabis nor delta-9 THC pose significant harm. Delta 9 is non-toxic in larger doses, and Delta 8's lower potency reduces potential risks. Excessive consumption can lead to side effects like excessive hunger or fatigue.
Delta 8 THC is generally safe, contingent on proper manufacturing processes. While delta 8 is naturally present in trace amounts, it can also be synthetically produced using CBD or delta 9 THC isolates.
The synthesis involves solvents and acids that can yield toxic by-products if purification isn't thorough, potentially compromising safety.
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